The time is here, Mom’s Weekend 2024!

Champaign-Urbana and the University of Illinois campus have so many great food spots for you and your mom to visit. Let us help you ease the stress of deciding where to eat next with our top 10 food spots in the area!

1 - Pizzeria Antica

At Pizzeria Antica freshly baked wood-fired pizzas create the perfect Italian experience. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the warm glow of dimmed lights, met with a vibe in between fancy and casual. The menu features antipasti, various salads, and artisanal pizzas. For a sweet finish, indulge in creamy gelato or an authentic espresso. At Pizzeria Antica, every bite is a journey through the culinary delights of Italy. 
 

2 - Caffe Bene

Are you searching for a cozy, visually pleasing spot to enjoy coffee, a sweet treat, or a light meal? Look no further than Caffe Bene. Offering an extensive selection of coffee and beverages to pair with your choice of sandwich or snack, this establishment is sure to please. Whether you’re aiming to be productive or simply unwind with your mom, Caffe Bene provides the ideal setting for both. 

3 - Big Grove Tavern

If you’re in the mood for classic American dishes with a unique twist, Big Grove Tavern is the place for you. A combination of a fancy environment with comfort food makes for the perfect downtown dining experience. With an extensive selection ranging from steaks and burgers to finger foods and a variety of breakfast/brunch offerings, there's something to satisfy everyone. 
 

4 - Aspen Taphouse

Here you’ll find your typical brewery experience with a variety of handheld appetizers, burgers, wings, salads, and more. Renowned for their delectable truffle fries, you can’t go wrong with any choice on the menu. Located just a short distance from campus, Aspen Taphouse provides an escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for enjoying a meal with your mom.
 

5 - Seven Saints

If you're aiming for an upscale evening, Seven Saints provides an ideal blend of sophistication and relaxation. Offering an extensive menu featuring appetizers like crab cakes and bruschetta, there's something to satisfy everyone. Located in downtown Champaign, this gives you and your mom a nice escape from the craziness of campus. 

6 - Cocomero

This two-story fro-yo shop will satisfy any sweet tooth. Open from 12 PM to 9:30 PM every day of the week, it offers ample opportunities for you and your mom to drop by during your busy weekend. With options of frozen yogurt in a variety of flavors, shaved ice, smoothies, coffee, or tea, you’re sure to find the perfect dessert for you. 

7 - Maize at the Station

Whether you’re looking for a spot on campus or downtown, Maize is a must in either location. Maize offers true authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring tacos, nachos, burritos, and more. With the addition of brunch, this is a nice place to take your mom out to eat during any time of the day. Visit the station or Illini Union to explore Maize's delightful menu firsthand.
 

8 - The Bread Company

This hidden gem is the perfect place to take your mom for a laid-back dining experience. With a vintage feel and wonderful service, you will enjoy every moment. For lunch, indulge in a selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches, while dinner brings forth a diverse array of pizzas to savor. To top it off, The Bread Company has a handful of gelato flavors to choose from for dessert.

9 - Black Dog

This smoke and ale house located in downtown Champaign provides a unique dining experience. The menu is packed with a diverse selection of meat options, each complemented by a southern side or appetizer. For those seeking alternatives to the smoky flavors, there are also a selection of other enticing entrees, grilled cheeses, and salads to choose from.

10 - Ko Fusion

Ko Fusion is an award winning asian fusion restaurant that features handcrafted sushi rolls alongside a blend of American and contemporary Asian dishes. With two locations in Champaign – one downtown and one on campus – there’s an option to suit every preference. For an upscale dining experience, the downtown location is the ideal choice, while the campus spot offers a more simplistic atmosphere. Both menus feature a variety of traditional and special sushi rolls, ramen, stir-fry bowls, and more.